The Dynamic Duo at St. James

The Daves of St. James

David Kasievich (left), President and Dave McDonough (right) Principal at St. James School (Philadelphia)

English teacher Alexandria Brake on David Kasievich: "One of the many reasons I love Dave is his playful and loving spirit. Of course he has his serious moments - he has a serious job and often arrives to work before anyone else and works long after we've gone home. But being able to spend more time with Dave in community has meant more times to celebrate the beautiful moments of loving fun each day. Singing along to the radio as we deliver Easter baskets to our coworkers, bringing his dog (and school mascot) Allegheny to morning mass because he knows it'll lift our spirits, baking a cake shaped like a lamb to celebrate the joy of Easter morning - in all of these moments Dave fills all of our hearts with joy, love, and hope amid a challenging and at times heart-rending time. I could not do what I do without it."

Science teacher Nick Gurol on Dave McDonough: "Dave McDonough is a thoughtful mentor, coach, confidant, and guiding light in my work as a middle school science teacher. His mentorship means a lot to me and empowers me to believe that no problem is unsolvable. I am lucky to have him as a colleague and a friend. "

How a Jesuit Priest in Quarantine Spends His Sundays

Rev. Mario Powell, President of member school Brooklyn Jesuit Prep, recently shared his new Sunday routine with the New York Times.

More Connected than Ever

While our member schools continue to remain closed and develop methods of distance learning, we find that school communities and the Coalition at large are more connected than ever! In the past month, heads of schools, principals, and Graduate Support Personnel have come together via Coalition ZOOM calls. These live sessions allow for our members to connect across the country (and in Canada!) to share best practices, discuss obstacles, and support each other through these trying times. The next planned sessions are for Advancement/Development personnel and counselors.

We held six zoom sessions, each spanning 10-19 participants! The Coalition will continue to host these sessions into the summer as we continue to support each other and see this pandemic through.